NSW Government to launch Star Casino public inquiry next week

The NSW Government have announced that Adam Bell SC will conduct public hearings into The Star Casino from Thursday 17 March.

The independent review has so far largely been undertaken in private, however Mr Bell will now conduct hearings on a number of topics where he has determined that witnesses should give evidence publicly.

NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority Chair, Philip Crawford, said Mr Bell was appointed to conduct the review with the powers, authorities, protections and immunities of a Royal Commission.

“Mr Bell’s review will consider how effectively The Star is complying with its statutory obligations and whether it remains suitable to hold a casino licence,” Mr Crawford said.

“This includes examining to what extent the casino is free from the infiltration of criminal interests such as money laundering and how well it is administering its obligations to minimise gaming harms.

“The Star is responsible for ensuring adequate anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems are in place and for thoroughly vetting and managing relationships with close associates, junket partners and high rollers.”

Mr Crawford said the public hearings are the concluding phase of the review before Mr Bell delivers his findings in June.

“We have every confidence that the review will thoroughly investigate The Star’s current operations, compliance with its statutory obligations, and make appropriate recommendations for remedial action if necessary,” he said.

The review is established under the Casino Control Act 1992 and was commissioned in October 2021 by the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority.

Public hearings are being carried out virtually and live streamed.